A YOUNG dance troupe realised their dream and made an impressive debut on the world stage thanks to a community’s support.

A YOUNG dance troupe realised their dream and made an impressive debut on the world stage thanks to a community’s support.

Back in March, we told you how Ebbw Vale’s 3 Dimension were battling to raise the money to attend the UDO World Championships in Blackpool after qualifying just three months after their creation.

But the community rallied together and helped them on their way with £2,500 of donations – and the troupe has returned with seventh place after fierce competition with teams from as far afield as Hawaii.

The group’s achievements were all the more impressive as they were forced to compete against much older teams in the Under-14s category despite their oldest member being just 11.

Their dance teachers Amie Curtis and Julie Stenner had great expectations from the beginning, and said they were very proud of their performances.

Amie, who also trained former Blaenau Gwent World Championship competitors Kemistry, said: “I had every confidence that they would do well and I am so proud of them all for all the hard work that has been put in, they truly deserved to win this prize”.

Linda Jones said the children, who train with Powerhouse Dance Studio at The Institute in Ebbw Vale, couldn’t have done it without the outpouring of support they received.

“Without the kind donation from many local businesses and the support of the community the children would not have been able to attend; the children, the dance teachers and the parents are exceptionally grateful to all who gave their donations and their time to help,” she said.

“A massive thank you goes to Joyce Davies-Taylor’s nan who became a nan to all, including the parents – who has worked tirelessly raising funds and dedicating herself to the team.”